OLE GUNNAR Solskjaer believes veteran striker Henrik Larsson's arrival at Manchester United will inspire him to 'reclaim' the lost years of his injury-hit career.

OLE GUNNAR Solskjaer believes veteran striker Henrik Larsson's arrival at Manchester United will inspire him to 'reclaim' the lost years of his injury-hit career.

Solskjaer's revival has been one of the more extraordinary stories of United's resurgence this season, given that the Norwegian forward's career seemed over after three years out with a serious knee injury.

But the 33-year-old has made an amazing return to form this season with nine goals - one more than Wayne Rooney - to play a key role in United's triple assault on the Premiership, Champions League and FA Cup. And the hitman claimed the arrival of 35-year-old Larsson on loan at United has given him renewed belief that he can also play on at the highest level for the next couple of years.

Solskjaer scored United's added-time winner in Sunday's 2-1 FA Cup win over Aston Villa and paid tribute to Larsson, who scored the opener on his debut.

"One of the best parts of the game for me was being able to watch Henrik from the bench before coming on," said Solskjaer. "I was really excited by that.

"I've been so impressed with him since his first training session with us.

"His goal was tremendous, the way he controlled it and put it away. He's two years older than me but watching him has inspired me to keep going as long as I can."

Larsson hailed his debut strike for United as one of the top 10 goals of his illustrious career and Sir Alex Ferguson is poised to take Helsingborg up on their offer to extend the Swede's loan spell.

Although Larsson's loan deal expires on March 12, Helsingborg have indicated they would not stand in the striker's way if he wanted to stay on until the end of the season. Larsson is almost certain to take advantage of his club's offer, and those close to the former Celtic and Barcelona striker say they have not seen him happier since he was in his pomp in Scotland.

"It was fantastic for me and an amazing start to my United career," said Larsson of Sunday's goal. "I didn't manage to score on my debuts for Celtic or Barcelona so that made it even better."

Larsson struck an immediate understanding with strike partner Rooney, with the England striker laying on the final pass for the Swede's goal.

"I didn't think so much about playing with Rooney," said Larsson. "But to have such a good player beside you on the pitch is great."